Reckless Tree cutting

The disputed ‘Auroville Town Development Council’ (‘ATDC’), appointed by the Governing Board and Secretariat of the Auroville Foundation, cut down 197 trees on the 11th of March to begin work on the Crown Road (CR) in Darkali Forest. 19 enangered and protected Red Sanders trees (Pterocarpus Santalinus) have been cut without following due legal processes. Building the Crown Road here will lead to the destruction and filling in of Darkali's most important water harvesting structures, and pave over much of the forest and park area. The ‘ATDC’ claims that it will transplant trees, although NO ACTIONS have been taken so far.

The events of 11th March did not comply with conditions set down by the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) Joint Committee (JC) report. The report permits tree cutting within a 9.1 metres width, but instead cutting of 17 metres width occurred in some areas, including trees not marked by the JC.

Why is Darkali so precious?

Darkali Forest is a 50-acre ecologically sensitive zone. It contains mature, rare and protected tree species such as Red Sanders and Palmyra. Darkali’s residents have spent the last 35 years creating a sophisticated rain water conservation system that harvests an estimated 4 million litres of water per year. It’s vital for the future ecological sustainability of Auroville and its neighbouring villages. Darkali is a beautiful serene place and one of our richest areas of flora and fauna.

Alternative solutions

Auroville’s residents have presented alternative proposals to adapt the proposed CR route SLIGHTLY to take the ground conditions of Darkali Forest into account. If the route is adjusted by a mere 6 metres, 75% of the trees can be saved, as well as the major part of this comprehensive water catchment system that is VITAL for the region’s water security.

However, the ‘ATDC’ continues to cut trees and bulldoze through precious forest, and the water catchment system is under IMMINENT THREAT. The NGT has sensibly ordered that the least damaging measures should be used regarding the trees, green areas, water bodies and ecosystems. However, these orders are disregarded by the ‘ATDC’s actions.

How can you help?

Stand by for info about collective action - to request a 6 metre deviation of the CR’s route that will save Darkali’s precious water catchment system. Follow @standforaurovilleunity on instagram and visit standforaurovilleunity.com for more information.